SEMA News—April 2014

SPY PHOTOS

Ford’s GT500 Replacement Prototype

Jeep “Latitude” Prototype

The shooters at KGP Photography caught a less-disguised prototype of Ford’s replacement for the Shelby GT500 running the streets of Dearborn. Not only was the quad exhaust exposed and camo-free, but also the shooters on-site said that the prototype SVT Mustang—expected to be the GT350—sounded just as impressive as the current GT500 powerhouse.

As for design, the sunset light penetrated the front camouflage to help reveal the slit for the hood-mounted air scoop, pointing to forced induction.

The front fender shows an air-permeable mesh panel to allow for the functional vent aft of the front wheel. This particular prototype was running on 295/35/R19s.

KGP snagged photos of a production-spec prototype for the new “baby” Jeep. The shots help confirm that this is the new entry-level global Jeep, while providing the best look yet at the mini-SUV’s design cues. The steering wheel is emblazoned with the Jeep logo, removing any doubt of identity. This is a clear look at the Jeep’s vertical grille slats and rounded headlights and taillights.

The new Jeep uses the Fiat “Small” architecture, but it is rumored to still have a reasonable level of off-road capability. Analysts point to the highly regarded Fiat Panda 4x4 off-roader as a promising starting point on which this new small Jeep may build. KGP has heard rumors that “Latitude” is the official name being circulated by inside sources.

Chevrolet Cruze

Diesel Jeep Cherokee

While this ’16 Chevy Cruze was taking a test spin in the Arctic Circle, photographers snapped revealing looks at the front and rear fascias and other changes in store. The shape and finish of the headlights and taillights are visible, and elements of Chevy’s latest taillight design theme can be seen, with Camaro, a little Malibu and even a little C7 Corvette flavor found in the internal lighting.

The Cruze has sold more than two million units worldwide since its launch and remains a key entry for Chevy in the compact-sedan market. According to the photographers and consistent with industry rumors, this pictured Cruze is longer than the current model, most notably in the rear section.

This diesel-powered ’14 Jeep Cherokee running on public roads outside of Chrysler’s Tech Center is wearing a prominent diesel badge on its tailgate. Photographers detected wires coming out of the engine bay, suggesting that engineers are monitoring the performance of a possible new engine for the Cherokee range. Currently, the Cherokee is only available with gasoline engines—a 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder and a 3.2L 24-valve V6.

The Cherokee’s diesel badge differs slightly from the badge found on the Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel V6. Whether this signals a new, smaller diesel offering destined for the smaller Cherokee is unclear.